John 6:34-40
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Today’s passage is a continuation of Jesus’ conversation with the massive crowd for whom he provided food from only three loaves of bread and two fish. Look back over John 6:22-33 before you begin today’s meditation.
Read John 6:34-40 taking note of the imagery Jesus uses to describe himself.
Bread is such a basic staple. Every culture has its own form of bread - it is a fundamental substance for satisfying hunger.
This crowd of people have seen firsthand how Jesus is capable of meeting their physical need for food, but what they don’t realize is that they have a greater need. Food will sustain them only temporarily, but Jesus offers them food and drink for their hungry, thirsty souls.
When we feed our souls with Jesus and drink deeply of his love and guidance, the nourishment we receive multiplies. We not only take Jesus in, we are filled to overflowing so we can share him with a spiritually starving world.
How satisfied is your soul today? Talk honestly about this with Jesus.
How are you caring for your soul by feeding on Jesus? Is there something you need to do differently to nourish your soul with Jesus? Share your thoughts with him now.
How could you develop a practice around eating that could remind you of your need for Jesus to nourish your soul?
Read John 6:34-40 again paying special attention to what Jesus says about belief.
Jesus says that those who believe in him are given to him by the Father. Everything we have is a gift from God including the ability to believe in Jesus. Our part is to respond to the stirring in our souls – Jesus does the rest. As we show up and open up to him, he fills us with himself satisfying much more than our obvious, temporal needs. Jesus gives us life. He is the source of life that is rich with meaning and purpose – life that goes on and on and multiplies forever.
What do you think, or how do you feel about the idea that everything you have, including your belief in Jesus, is a gift from God?
If you haven’t ever responded to the stirring in your soul and placed your belief in Jesus, consider doing that now. Just talk to Jesus and tell him you are accepting the gift of him.
If you are already believing and receiving your spiritual nourishment from Jesus, stop now and express your gratitude to God.
There may be something you need to do in response to Jesus’ words today. If so, take action now.
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